1 Timothy 2:12-15 restricts women from the pastoral/authority role in the church, but does not prohibit co-ed Bible study or women's ministry generally

1 Timothy 2:12-15: "I do not permit a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man." Mike's reading: this restricts women from the formal pastoral/elder role — the ongoing teaching-authority position in a congregation. It is grounded in the created order (Adam formed first) and the fall (Eve was deceived). Mike connects it to the current age of the church, not eternity — he does not believe male/female role distinctions will persist in the resurrection. He is open to co-ed Bible study discussion settings. He acknowledges he may change his mind after more thorough study. He explicitly rejects any implication that women are less capable or less valuable.